An overflow crowd gathered at the First AME Church of Los Angeles for the One in the Spirit Concert Featuring the Cathedral and Unity Choirs with Grammy Award-winning Gospel artist Richard Smallwood on Sunday, August 22nd, 2010. Church leaders and members of the FAME congregation and community celebrated the majestic music of this lauded artist in a concert that benefited the outreach ministries of FAME. United States Congresswoman Diane E. Watson was a special guest at the Concert, who came out to support the mission and ministry of FAME.

"We commend the members of the Cathedral Choir and the Unity Choir for the dedication and commitment that they give to the congregation throughout the year," said Pastor John J. Hunter. "We would like to extend a special thanks to Barbara Allen, Michael Curls and Patricia Robinson, directors of the choirs, and to Congresswoman Watson, who was here to support our efforts."

The benefit concert's Mistress of Ceremonies was Edna Tatum, radio host of Gospel Classics on KPFK-FM 90.7 in Los Angeles and one of America's most renowned commentators in the Gospel Music Arena. Guest soloists included Derrick Pete, Theresa Broomfield, Keith Allen, Audra Horn and Eddie Brown.

A special tribute was paid to the late Bishop Walter Hawkins who died last month. The combined choirs sang "Marvelous" with Eddie Brown as the soloist. Pastor John J. Hunter also led a stirring rendition of "I'd Rather Have Jesus."

"The FAME Church benefit concert was a resounding success," said First Lady Denise Hunter. "Richard Smallwood is attributed with many gospel 'firsts.' He was a member of the first Gospel group on Howard University's campus, The Celestials, and his music has been recorded by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Destiny's Child, Yolanda Adams and many more. We were honored to have such a world-class Gospel artist bring his incredible talent and example to our congregation and community."

Grammy Award-winning Smallwood has clearly and solidly changed the face of Gospel music. A diverse and innovative artist, Smallwood has received many honors including Dove Awards, Stellar Awards and NAACP Image Award Nominations. He graduated cum laude from renowned Howard University with degrees in both Vocal Performance and Piano, in addition to graduate work in the field of Ethnomusicology. He also was inducted into the Gospel music Hall of Fame and received the Howard University Distinguished Achievement Award.

To learn more about First AME Church of Los Angeles visit: www.famechurch.org